English: Apple Wine Jug / Español: Jarra de vino de manzana / Português: Jarra de vinho de maçã / Français: Cruche de vin de pomme / Italiano: Brocca di vino di mela

Äppelwoikrug is a traditional ceramic jug used for serving and drinking Apfelwein (apple wine), a popular regional drink in the German state of Hesse, particularly around Frankfurt. The term "Äppelwoi" is the Hessian dialect for "apple wine," and "krug" means "jug" or "pitcher" in German. The Äppelwoikrug, also known as a Bembel, is characterised by its distinctive grey colour with blue hand-painted decorations, typically floral or geometric patterns.

Description

Äppelwoikrug is an iconic symbol of Frankfurt’s local drinking culture and is closely associated with the consumption of Apfelwein, a fermented beverage made from apples, similar to cider. The jug is traditionally crafted from stoneware, which helps to keep the apple wine cool. It comes in various sizes, often ranging from half a litre to several litres, making it suitable for sharing among friends and family in a communal setting.

The jug's design is both functional and decorative:

• Material: Made from glazed ceramic or stoneware, which is durable and maintains the cool temperature of the apple wine.
• Shape: Typically has a rounded body with a narrow neck and a handle, making it easy to pour.
• Decoration: Hand-painted in blue patterns against a grey background, often featuring floral motifs, leaves, or vines, which are traditional in the region.

The Äppelwoikrug is commonly used in Apfelweinwirtschaften (apple wine taverns) in Frankfurt and the surrounding areas, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy apple wine with simple, hearty regional dishes like Handkäs mit Musik (sour milk cheese with onions) and Grüne Soße (green sauce).

Application Areas

• Apple Wine Taverns (Apfelweinwirtschaften): Served in Äppelwoikrugs as a traditional way to enjoy apple wine in local pubs and taverns.
• Festivals and Celebrations: Used during festivals like the Frankfurt Apfelwein Festival and other local events celebrating Hessian culture.
• Home Entertaining: Used by locals when serving apple wine to guests at home, maintaining the cultural tradition.
• Souvenir Shops: Often sold as souvenirs, representing Frankfurt's unique culinary heritage.

Well-Known Examples

• Traditional Apfelwein Service: Apple wine served in an Äppelwoikrug along with small, ribbed glassware known as Geripptes to enhance the experience.
• Bembel in Festivities: Large Äppelwoikrugs used during Frankfurt's apple wine festivals or local celebrations.
• Hand-painted Bembel: Crafted by local artisans, these jugs are valued both for their functionality and as decorative pieces.

Treatment and Risks

• Fragility: Although made from durable ceramic, the jug can break if dropped or mishandled.
• Cleaning: Should be cleaned with care to preserve the hand-painted designs; ideally washed by hand rather than in a dishwasher.
• Proper Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to avoid damage to the ceramic and painted surfaces.

Similar Terms

• Bembel: Another name for the Äppelwoikrug, commonly used in the Frankfurt area to describe the same traditional jug.
• Steinkrug: A general term for any stoneware mug or jug used in Germany, often for beer or cider.
• Pitcher: A general term for a container used for serving drinks, similar in function but varying in design.

Summary

Äppelwoikrug is a traditional ceramic jug from Hesse, Germany, used for serving apple wine. Known for its distinctive blue hand-painted decorations and durable stoneware material, it is a symbol of Frankfurt’s apple wine culture, enhancing the drinking experience in local taverns, festivals, and homes.

--